We recently had the chance to connect with Cara Heard and have shared our conversation below.
Cara, so good to connect and we’re excited to share your story and insights with our audience. There’s a ton to learn from your story, but let’s start with a warm up before we get into the heart of the interview. Are you walking a path—or wandering?
Honestly, a little of both. I have a general direction in mind, but some of the most meaningful projects I’ve taken on weren’t part of the original plan. They showed up unexpectedly, but there was no way I could say no. Curating art for Central Georgia Cancer Care and now working with House of Raeford to bring art into their workspaces are perfect examples. These opportunities found me, and now they’re part of the path I’m walking. I’ve learned to stay open to the detours because sometimes that’s where the joy is waiting.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hi, I’m Cara Heard. I’m a mixed media artist, creative strategist, and someone who’s built a career by following what feels honest, even when it doesn’t follow a straight line. I started a teaching art studio in a small town, built an escape room business from scratch, and now run Cara Heard Co where I create bold, layered art and help businesses show up online in ways that feel like them.
I’ve curated workplace art for places like Central Georgia Cancer Care and House of Raeford, taken on commissions that reflect the real and sometimes messy stories of families, and created marketing strategies for small businesses and creatives who want their audience to actually pay attention. I split my time between making art, managing content, curating spaces, and occasionally remembering to eat lunch. What ties it all together is the belief that what we make should connect with people. And that it’s okay if it doesn’t fit in a box. Also, there is always iced coffee.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. Who taught you the most about work?
My parents. They showed up. Every day. For their jobs, for each other, and for us. They weren’t chasing titles or trying to climb anything. They were loyal, steady, and knew how to do a good job without needing a gold star for it. They taught me that showing up matters, that consistency builds trust, and that work isn’t just about what you do but how you carry yourself while doing it.
They also planned well. They saved, they paid things off, and when it was time to retire, they actually got to enjoy it. I hope we are setting the same example for our son.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one thing to my younger self, it would be this: don’t be afraid to pivot. The plan you made at 22 isn’t supposed to last forever. Life is going to throw you some wild curveballs, and you don’t always have to catch them. Sometimes you get to throw a few right back.
Change isn’t failure. It’s how you figure out what actually fits. Some of the best things in my life came from paths I never planned. Stay open. Trust your gut. You’re allowed to walk away from something that doesn’t feel right anymore.
Next, maybe we can discuss some of your foundational philosophies and views? What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
I believe art is for everyone. Whether you’re making it, collecting it, or just standing in front of something and feeling a little more human for a second, it belongs to you. I’m committed to that belief, no matter how long it takes. Through my own work, through community events, and through curating spaces, I want people to know art isn’t just for galleries or people with degrees. It can be messy, weird, healing, joyful, or quiet. There’s room for all of it, and for everyone.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you laid down your name, role, and possessions—what would remain?
If I laid down my name, my role, and everything I own, I think what would be left is a mix of grit, intuition, and snark that could cut through rock. I’d still be the one trusting my gut, finding the magic in a sunset, and probably muttering cuss words that would make a sailor blush. What stays is how I move through the world, how I treat people, and how I keep showing up with a little humor and a lot of heart.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.caraheardco.com
- Instagram: @caraheardco
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caraheard
